Midwest Melee: Day 3 Forward Standouts

Elgin, Illinois – On May 19th – 21st, programs across the country faced off at The Centre of Elgin, and competed at an extremely high level!

The players in the building all had their heart set on showing just why they work so hard on their game. Each game had highlight worthy plays, and players looking to prove their team was worthy of a Championship Title. Although there can only be one champion, there was no shortage of intensity throughout the entire weekend in each division. This event had one of if not the best talent thus far on the NEXT circuit. Below, I highlighted the “Day 3: Forward Standouts” that I was able to watch at “Midwest Melee”.

Asher Serlen |F| College Bound Elite

Serlen made his impact as a rebound leader for the Midwest Melee champions. Along with altering shots in the paint on defense, he also ran the floor well in transition ensuring easy baskets off of dump downs and second chance points. Serlen was a reliable target against zone defenses and most impressive was his ability to keep the ball high and consistently visit the free throw line.  

Jayden Anunda |G/F| Minnesota Select

Anunda played big for the Minnesota Select program, his wing span and athleticism allowed him to play even bigger. The bouncy wing found himself battling for boards in the paint on both ends. In small ball lineups, he was a clear mismatch for bigger players. In open court situations, Anunda was a threat to throw down dunks with ease. 

Tref Rademaker |F| Chapman Basketball Academy

Rademaker was a huge target for Chapman Basketball Academy, and he impacted his team in various ways. He anchored the paint at a high level by walling up without fouling and capturing rebounds. His mobility in transition made for good pace for his team. Most impressive was his post playmaking, his court vision when facing up and soft touch from the painted area was apparent all weekend.

Christian Williams |G/F| College Bound Elite

Williams was a hard nosed wing who had his hands in a multitude of plays for the tournament champs. Williams’ activity in the passing lanes allowed him to lead the break and score at the basket for momentum shifting plays. Most impressive was his ability to go on a one man scoring tier via; playing off two feet efficiently, reliable scoring via floater in the mid range, and spacing the floor with his quick trigger shooting from range. 

Jack Kohnen |F| Chapman Basketball Academy

Kohnen had a dynamic impact for Chapman Basketball Academy, his team benefited greatly from his height and athleticism on both ends. He was a reliable target when cutting to the rim, he consistently finished through contact. He did his part in the rebound category as well, clearing the boards on both ends. Most impressive was his activity in the paint on the defensive end, blocking and altering shots as a help defender.